But Berlin said it was "not a substantial proposal for a solution" - opening a rift with the European Commission which had branded the request "positive" only moments earlier.

Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis had written to the "Eurogroup" promising to use the six months "to attain fiscal and financial stability".

Greek finance minister: Yanis Varoufakis (Image: Getty)

He said a deal would "enable the Greek government to introduce the substantive, far-reaching reforms that are needed to restore the living standards of millions of Greek citizens through sustainable economic growth, gainful employment and social cohesion".